Future fare increases are inevitable due to inflation complimented by increasing costs of labor, power, fuel, other supplies and materials necessary to run any transit system.

MTA services are still one of the best bargains in town. Since the 1950's, the average cost of riding either the bus, subway or commuter rail has gone up at a lower rate than either the consumer price index or inflation.

Prior to the Metro Card, which affords a free transfer between bus and subway, riders had to pay two full fares. Purchasing a monthly pass further reduces the cost per ride.

Thousands of employers offer transit checks, which pays even more of your costs. Perhaps paying a smaller hike now is better than a much larger one later.